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would say that the case to which I immediately refer is this: There are two boys who were farming the property of a Mr. Stokes of this County, one 7, the other 9 years of age. The children have no relatives nearer than a half uncle who has never manifested any concern about them. They are consequently helpless in every sense of that very comprehensive term. Mr. Stokes wanting [[?]] to have them bound to him, to teach them agriculture, to treat them humanely and to teach them to spell, read, &c. Shall our Court do so, or not? And if one may bind the said children, may we bind all others in our jurisdiction similarly situated? Do me and the negro the kindness to give me full advice touching these matters. There are many cases like this one in our county, and to avoid sending them to the "Poor House", when we seem barely able to feed ourselves, is the reason of my present inquisitiveness.

Very respectfully
Rich'd Inge Wynne
Sol. for Franklin County

Col. E Whittlesey
Col &c. &c.
Raleigh, N.C.

Transcription Notes:
A few words need to be checked for accuracy (marked with [[?]]) and a couple unintelligible words. - NB This is a really tricky one! Needs another set of eyes. -- Beth Took another pass at it, and I think it's close, anyway. -- Beth I think what's been changed to "who now farming" reads "who were formerly" -- Beth